What happened?
The ex-gratia family route for certain third-country nationals who do not qualify under the formal Family Reunification Regulations.
Why does it matter?
family
Who is affected?
Eligible non-EU sponsors in Malta and their family members abroad
What should you do?
Check the current Family Members Policy before applying
The Family Members Policy is an ex-gratia route used where a third-country national sponsor does not qualify under the formal Family Reunification Regulations but satisfies the conditions of the policy.
Under the current official policy, the sponsor generally needs a Maltese residence permit with at least one year validity and must normally wait 12 calendar months from the first residence permit before applying. Special rules may apply to KEI and SEI sponsors.
The policy currently refers to stable resources based on the median wage. The published figure is €18,940, with an additional 20% of that median wage for each family member. Because income thresholds can change, always verify the latest policy before submitting an application.
Applications must normally be made before the family member is physically present in Malta. A limited exception applies to minor children born in Malta. The current Family Members Policy page lists a €50 fee for new and renewal applications and the policy states that a decision should be communicated within 60 days after submission.
Official policy: https://identita.gov.mt/expatriates-unit-main-page/noneu-nationals/non-employment-permits/family-members-policy/